How Much Does a Bearded Dragon Cost? : A complete Guidance
How Much Does a Bearded Dragon Cost? Bearded dragons are amazing pets! They are friendly, easy to care for, and look super cool. But before you bring one home, you need to know how much they cost. Let’s break it all down in simple steps.
What is a Bearded Dragon?
A bearded dragon, or “beardie,” is a type of lizard. They have spiky beards, love to bask in the sun, and are calm around people. These lizards are great for kids and beginners. They come from Australia but are popular as pets all around the world.
How Much Does a Bearded Dragon Cost?
Bearded dragon prices depend on a few things:
- Age: Baby dragons cost less than adults.
- Breed/Color: Some dragons have special colors or patterns. These are called “morphs” and can be expensive.
- Where You Buy: Pet stores, breeders, and reptile expos have different prices.
Here is a quick breakdown:
| Type of Bearded Dragon | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Standard (Common) | $40 – $70 |
| Special Morphs | $100 – $500+ |
| Rare Morphs | $500 – $1,000+ |
For example, a baby bearded dragon at a pet store might cost $50. But a rare, colorful morph from a breeder could cost $800 or more! Always check the health of the lizard before buying.
Pro Tip: If you are new to owning lizards, start with a standard bearded dragon. They are affordable and easy to care for.
Cost of Bearded Dragon Supplies
Buying a bearded dragon is only the start. You will also need supplies to set up their home.
Tank or Enclosure
A bearded dragon needs a big tank. For baby dragons, a 40-gallon tank is fine. But adults need a tank that is at least 75 gallons. Bigger is better.
Prices for tanks range from $50 to $200, depending on size and brand. If you want a glass enclosure, it can cost even more.
Lighting and Heating
Bearded dragons need heat and UVB lights to stay healthy. Without these, they can get sick. You will need:
- Heat Lamp: $10 – $25
- UVB Light: $20 – $50
- Light Fixtures: $20 – $30
You should replace UVB bulbs every 6 months. This is important for their bones and overall health.
Substrate (Floor Material)
The floor of the tank needs safe material. Use things like reptile carpet, paper towels, or tiles. Avoid sand or loose substrates, as these can cause health problems.
Substrate costs about $10 to $30, depending on the material. Tiles can last forever, so they are a great choice to save money.
You May Like to Read : https://wildopedia.com/red-bearded-dragons/
Decorations
Bearded dragons love to climb and hide. Add decorations to make them feel at home. Things like rocks, logs, and fake plants are perfect.
Prices for decorations range from $10 to $40. You can also use natural items, like clean branches, to save money.
Food and Water Dishes
Your bearded dragon needs dishes for food and water. These are usually $5 to $15. Some people use small ceramic bowls they already have at home.
Monthly Costs for Bearded Dragons
Once you have your setup ready, there are ongoing costs to care for your bearded dragon.
Food
Bearded dragons eat insects, like crickets and mealworms, and fresh vegetables.
- Insects: $20 – $40 per month
- Vegetables: $10 – $20 per month
They also enjoy treats like hornworms or waxworms occasionally. Make sure the veggies are fresh and varied.
Supplements
Bearded dragons need calcium and vitamin powders to stay healthy. You should sprinkle these on their food several times a week.
Supplements cost about $5 to $10 per month.
Electricity
Lights and heaters use electricity every day. This adds about $10 to $20 to your monthly utility bill.
Total Cost of Owning a Bearded Dragon
Here is a breakdown of the overall cost:
| Expense | Initial Cost | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Bearded Dragon | $40 – $1,000 | N/A |
| Tank and Setup | $100 – $300 | N/A |
| Food and Supplements | N/A | $30 – $50 |
| Electricity | N/A | $10 – $20 |
For the first year, you can expect to spend $200 to $1,500, depending on the dragon and setup you choose. After that, yearly costs are about $300 to $800.
Tips to Save Money
Owning a bearded dragon doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some money-saving tips:
- Buy Second-Hand Supplies: Look for tanks, lights, and decorations on resale websites or at local yard sales.
- Breed Your Own Insects: You can raise crickets or mealworms at home. This can save you a lot of money.
- Use Budget-Friendly Substrate: Paper towels and tiles are cheap and safe options for the tank floor.
- DIY Decorations: Use natural materials like rocks and branches, but make sure they are cleaned and safe.
FAQs
Are bearded dragons expensive to care for?
Not really. After the initial setup, monthly costs are affordable. Food and electricity are the main expenses.
Can I get a bearded dragon for free?
Sometimes, yes! People often rehome their bearded dragons. Check local pet groups, rescue centers, or classified ads.
How long do bearded dragons live?
Bearded dragons can live 8 to 12 years if you take good care of them.
Do they need a vet?
Yes, regular check-ups are a good idea. A vet visit costs about $50 to $100. Some owners also save for emergency vet care.
Do I need a license to own a bearded dragon?
In most places, no license is needed. However, check your local laws, especially if you are outside the U.S.
Final Thoughts
Bearded dragons are fun and friendly pets. While there are some upfront costs, their monthly care is manageable. Make sure you plan your budget and buy from trusted sellers. If you provide proper care, your bearded dragon will be a happy companion for many years!
